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Group:
Reptile
Estimated genome size:
10 - 20 cm (total body length)
Size:
10 - 20 cm (total body length)
Distribution:
Endemic to the Republic of South Africa, occurring in Little Namaqualand from Port Nolloth to Clanwilliam.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
48.66 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
5.93 kilobases
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Genome Length:
1.56 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
98.8% [S: 96.9%, D: 2.0%]
Importance:
It serves as an important model species for studying specific stages of limb development within the genus Scelotes, representing an intermediate limb development stage (forelimb digits = 0; hindlimb digits = 2), and for investigating the genomic evolution of vertebrates. It has a restricted distribution and occurs in distinct habitats and regions, making it an excellent model species for biogeographic and molecular ecology studies.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Dr. Zhongning Zhao
University of Free State
Group:
Mammal
Genome size:
2.64 million DNA base pairs (2.64 Gigabases)
Size:
80-120 cm
Distribution:
Majority of Zulu sheep are kept kept by rural farmers in the Kwa-Zulu
Natal province of South Africa as a source for income and affordable
protein.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
60.89 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
12.1 kilobases
Assembly N50:
TBA
Contig number:
TBA
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
TBA
Genome Length:
2.64 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
98.8%
BUSCO database:
TBA
Ovis aries
Zulu Sheep

Importance:
Zulu Sheep developed unique and specific adaptative traits to local Southern African environments including tolerance to hot and humid conditions, tolerance to local internal and external parasites, endurance, and is immune to most local disease.
Date Published:
2024-05-07
Photo credit:
© S. Ngcobo
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